Formally referred to as rhinoplasties, nose jobs are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. According to Harvard Health, around 220,000 rhinoplasties are performed every year. Rhinoplasty does not only help restore balance to one’s face but can tackle health issues pertaining to breathing.  

Here are six essential things to know before getting a rhinoplasty. 

1) There are different types of rhinoplasties. 

Rhinoplasties can be performed both surgically and non-surgically, all depending on how subtle or long-lasting you want the changes to be. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is performed quickly using a filler injection. Results are mild to moderate depending on indication. The results can last for around a year. Surgical rhinoplasties take longer to perform, are far more complex, and cost considerably more, but do result in longer-lasting outcomes. 

You should also keep in mind that there are differences between aesthetic and functional rhinoplasties. Many cosmetic nasal surgeries do not need to improve nasal breathing, but they certainly must maintain it when a nose is already functioning well. On the other hand, improving the nasal airway in certain patients may translate into an improved outward appearance. Your surgeon will evaluate all of these factors at your consultation and educate you on the steps needed to reach your goals. You can find more information on each type of rhinoplasty on our procedures page.

2) Choosing the right surgeon is key. 

Not all plastic surgeons specialize in the same kinds of procedures. Some surgeons perform facial surgery, while others tackle body parts from the neck down. When it comes to rhinoplasties, you should search for a doctor who performs facial plastic surgery regularly and is well versed in rhinoplasty. As a young surgeon begins performing rhinoplasties after training, it is often said that a minimum of 50 surgeries are needed for the surgeon to begin to understand the nuances of the surgery. Then, a surgeon may spend their entire career working to hone their rhinoplasty knowledge and skills. There are many surgeons that do perform rhinoplasties, but you will find some that perform only a few of these in any given year. Currently. Dr. Stallworth operates on 3-5 noses per week and has a rhinoplasty practice that typically sees 150 or more rhinoplasties performed in a year.

From looking at patient reviews to having extended conversations on your individual procedure, we share some tips to finding the right doctor in a previous blog.

3) Be prepared for the recovery process. 

Patients are typically advised to give themselves at least a week for recovery. If you’re a student or work at an office, you’ll likely want to take time off following the procedure. Recovery may entail taking prescribed pain medication. You can also expect to experience a certain amount of difficulty breathing for at least a week.

For recovery, you are also advised to avoid any cardio or weight exercises for around two weeks. Athletes should remain out of any heavy sports for a minimum of six weeks. To prevent harming the bridge of your new nose, you should also avoid wearing glasses (including sunglasses) for one month as well. 

Most patients experience minimal pain and typically return to their regular activities within a couple of weeks.

4) Results are not instant. 

Expectations for the procedure differ for every patient, but overall, it’s important to remember that you won’t see results from day-to-night. Swelling and bruising will begin to go away after around a week, but some form of swelling will last for many months. In general, swelling is something that is hard to measure but is seen in photographs over time. Approximately 75-80% of the swelling will be gone in 3-4 months. But the remaining swelling will take at least one full year to resolve. In revision cases, or more extensive surgeries, this can take even longer. With rhinoplasty, patience is key.

5) There are some guidelines to follow before the procedure.

As you prepare to get your rhinoplasty done, your surgeon will most likely provide certain guidelines to follow. This will ensure that you are in the best possible state for your procedure. Although these might vary depending on the doctor and individual procedure, Your Plastic Surgery Guide states some common pre-procedure specifications:

  • The patient should not eat or drink anything after midnight starting the night before their rhinoplasty.
  • It is suggested to avoid drinking any alcohol starting a week before the procedure, which makes the healing process go smoother.
  • Depending on your case, your surgeon might also suggest avoiding certain medication a few weeks leading up to your procedure, which could increase the risk of bleeding. 
  • If you’re a smoker, you’ll need to quit before the procedure. This allows for better blood flow and healing.

6) Remember, there is no such thing as the perfect nose! 

There are many types, shapes, and sizes when it comes to noses, and the important thing is feeling confident and content with yours. It takes a lot of experience, artistic skill, and technical expertise to craft a new nose, and an experienced surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty will help you come close to what you’re envisioning. 

Ready to get started on rhinoplasty? 

Get natural-looking results from our rhinoplasties, customized for every patient. Contact us for appointment availability with Dr. Stallworth.